NBA Power Rankings: OKC Thunder and peers jockey for position

Russell Westbrook, OKC Thunder (Photos by Darren Carroll/NBAE via Getty Images)
Russell Westbrook, OKC Thunder (Photos by Darren Carroll/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Jevon Carter, Mike Conley, OKC Thunder (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

29-44. Previous: 22nd. Memphis grizzlies. 21. team. 211.

The fact the Grizzlies remain a top 10 defense (9th) speaks to how much the modern era of basketball is different than previous generations of the NBA. With officials helping scorers score, perimeters lighting up at unprecedented levels and pace at an all-time high, however, defense on its own isn’t enough.

Offensively, the Grizzlies rank 30th in field goal attempts, makes and points per game, all areas they’ll need to find assets to help them improve.

Top clubs still need a stellar defense to win titles but simply delivering grit and grind doesn’t equate to winning. Memphis’ ability to add offensive talent while retaining their defense will determine how quickly they return to the playoffs.

Schedule particulars:

Tankathon rank for schedule strength of remaining games: 10th

Games Remaining: 9 | Home: 4 | Road: 5

  • Versus top 10 offenses: four
  • Versus top 10 defenses: one
  • Games facing teams over .500: six
  • Last 10 games: 5-5
  • Streak: Lost two
  • Back to back sets: three

 Key Stats:

Offensive Rating: 27th (105.0 )
Defensive Rating: 8th (107.4)
Net Differential: 24th (-2.3)

Record: 13th in WC eliminated from playoff opportunity
Home: 19-18 | Road: 10-26 | Back to back sets: 10
Versus the West: 20-24| Versus the East: 9-17

Week 23, 12:  Won vs. Rockets, lost vs @Magic, Wolves |
On tap for week 24:  vs.Thunder, Warriors, @Suns, @Clippers